Today we’d like to introduce you to Neyeli Carrillo.
Hi Neyeli, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I was born and raised in Mexico. I moved to the US to work for a very prestigious company as a Mechanical Engineer. The dream was now a reality, but the dream didn’t last long and unexpectedly I got fired. I started applying for jobs, hundreds of applications and hundreds of rejections. That breaks your heart! When the pandemic hit, my hopes of finding a job disappeared. I had to create my own job. In May 2020 I opened my Etsy shop selling handmade hair accessories. I saw these stylish headbands in stores in Europe and thought that I could make them for half the price or even less. It has not been a millionaire business but that was a reasonable way to start. My husband and I moved to Austin last year. I realized how fast Austin is growing and the amazing opportunity that this represents. I was inspired by the Austin vibes. It is contagious the willingness to gather with friends, go out on a picnic or have a date night. Therefore, I started my new business, GATHERING FACTOR, which enables me to combine two of my favorite activities: cooking and crafting. I can say that I am just at the beginning of the journey and I am doing my part to get to that takeoff I’d like.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
It was anything but smooth! I am not patient, and I would love to hit the jackpot on my first try, but that is not how things work. Each day I learn something new because I am on an entirely new path for me. I grew up in a different country. The way businesses are managed differs from country to country. This is something I need to learn myself and sometimes by trial and error. It is interacting with people each day that presents the biggest challenge to me. I am an extremely introverted person. I am always striving to go further on this issue. It would have been difficult for me to accept this interview one year ago, and yet here I am.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Gathering Factor specializes in transforming small gatherings into memorable celebrations by bringing in fancy and special details. I believe that tiny details can make all the difference. “Eat Pretty” is a mantra. Gathering Factor is all about aesthetics.
The Gathering Factor can create your entire event or help with small details. Brunch with friends? Romantic dinner? Birthday party? Marriage proposal? We love doing it all.
In addition, we can prepare catering servings for your event to add some gastronomic flair. On our current menu are charcuterie boxes and cups, croissant sandwiches and yogurt parfaits. We are constantly adding new items to our menu.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My family! The support I receive from my husband is unparalleled, but he is also my fiercest critic, and I am grateful for that. It is crucial to have someone who is not afraid of telling the truth. You need an impartial eye who represents a client in this type of business. He is very helpful to me in changing things that are apparent to me.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.gatheringfactor.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/gathering.factor
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Gathering-Factor-102966195762813/
Image Credits
Gathering Factor
